The Chelsea boss stepped in following Andre Villas-Boas’ sacking last season to repair damaged egos and steer the Blues to Champions League glory.

Many saw it as a lucky one-off and the current Group E table shows they could soon be consigned to history – as no defending team has ever retained the title. Chelsea lie second, three points behind leaders Donetsk.

A loss to the Ukraine champions could end their dream of winning again and they also face a tough trip to Juventus.

Di Matteo also knows the world is looking at them after two seasons of lurid headlines with owner Roman Abramovich quickly tiring of on and off-pitch antics.

Di Matteo said: “This is our most important game since last season’s final.

“We have to win both home games and maybe get something in Turin. It is a very important game, one we have to win.

“Chelsea thrive on adversity. Maybe that is part of our DNA. There’s a strong identity – a strong work and team ethic in our dressing room.”

The Italian has skipper John Terry available again and added: “It’s great to have him back. He is a fantastic defender. He is very influential and he’s used to the big games such as Shakhtar.

“It is a big pressure game on a big night. He has also scored important goals. He makes his presence felt. We have people such as Petr Cech too. It is better when he is available.”

Di Matteo added: “We knew they were a strong side. They went to Turin and played with confidence and ambition. We didn’t underestimate them.

“They are a good and quick team with individuals who can decide games.

“At Stamford Bridge it will be a different game. We are very strong at home and it will be different than it was in Donetsk. The early goal we conceded out there was a big factor for us as it allowed them to play on the counter-attack.

“We need one of those special Euro nights at Stamford Bridge.

“We have to produce a special night on Wednesday. We have had those nights, like against Napoli and Valencia last year.”